Manoa Poke Shop

Overview

Manoa Poke Shop in Somerville, MA, offers an authentic taste of Hawaii in the heart of New England. The shop is celebrated for its commitment to traditional Hawaiian flavors, a welcoming island vibe, and a menu featuring poke bowls and Hawaiian-inspired plate lunches. The owner, Jacob Afoa, brings his Samoan heritage and a deep connection to the flavors of the Pacific, making Manoa a culinary destination for both locals and those longing for a taste of home.

Popular Dishes

Signature Poke Bowls and Mixplates

• Mixplate: The shop’s standout item, the mixplate, lets diners choose two proteins (poke or other Hawaiian favorites) served with two scoops of hot white rice and classic sides like macaroni salad, Korean kimchi cucumbers, mixed greens with pickled carrots, and crispy chickpeas. This combination delivers both variety and comfort, capturing the essence of a Hawaiian plate lunch.
• Ahi Shoyu Poke: Yellowfin tuna in a sesame-soy marinade with pickled onion, scallion, and macadamia nuts.
• Salmon Shoyu Poke: Salmon in sesame-soy marinade with pickled onion, scallion, and crispy wonton.
• Kilauea: Spicy tuna with kim chee aioli, crispy wonton, and spicy furikake.
• Kelaguen: Catch of the day in a citrus marinade with onion and legumes.
• Oka (Ahi): Traditional Samoan-style poke with coconut milk, sambal, sweet onion, and scallion.

Island Favorites

• Fried Chicken: Mochiko-battered thigh, brined and buttermilk-soaked, drizzled with a unique spiced honey. This dish is lauded as among the best fried chicken in Boston and has earned accolades for its flavor and texture.
• Kalua Pig: Slow-cooked heritage pork shoulder, served with rice or Portuguese sweet roll, topped with crispy cracklin’ and chorizo slaw.
• Spam Musubi: Hawaii’s beloved snack featuring Spam marinated in house sauce, rice, and nori (often sells out quickly).
• Pineapple Cake: A sweet treat that’s popular for takeout.

Vegetarian & Gluten-Free Options

• Tofu Poke: Braised tofu in teriyaki marinade with edamame, tomato, pickled onion, avocado, and crispy wonton.
• Nearly all poke and mixplate components are gluten-free, as the restaurant uses gluten-free tamari and offers substitutions for those with celiac disease, making it an accommodating spot for diverse diets.

Atmosphere and Experience

Manoa Poke Shop is described as a “bright, colorful” space with a lively, easygoing island vibe. The atmosphere feels like a community hub, especially for students and families from Hawaii or the Pacific Islands. The restaurant’s mission is to “share the spirit of aloha” with every guest, and regulars note that the staff—often including the owner—are exceptionally friendly and attentive.

Accolades and Recognition

• Featured on Eater Boston’s lists of the hottest restaurants and best fried chicken in Boston, as well as their favorite dishes of 2019.
• Widely praised for authenticity by Hawaiian transplants and locals alike.
• Called a “neighborhood staple” and “an amazing spot” for poke and island fare.

Ownership and Team

Jacob Afoa, the owner, runs Manoa with the help of his fiancée and family. Afoa’s roots in Samoa and his family’s tradition of catering and baking infuse the shop’s offerings and service ethos. The team’s commitment to quality and community is reflected in both the food and the overall experience.

Summary

Manoa Poke Shop stands out for its authentic, high-quality poke, innovative mixplates, and standout fried chicken, all served with a genuine spirit of aloha. With fresh seafood, creative sides, and a host of gluten-free and vegetarian options, it’s a must-visit for anyone seeking a taste of Hawaii in the Boston area.

References:

• https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g41818-d10744667-Reviews-Manoa_Poke-Somerville_Massachusetts.html
• https://spoonuniversity.com/school/bu/manoa-poke-shop-a-taste-of-home-in-a-poke-bowl/
• https://manoa.fish
• https://karmalize.org/business/manoa-poke-shop/
• https://order.toasttab.com/online/manoapoke